The study seeks to outline and evidence the prerequisites for institutional recognition of non-formal and informal learning as they surfaced from a four-year international VET and academic training experience in the area of formal recognition of the competences and skills. The formally recognized competencies were developed by trainee- and placement-subjects within the framework of Leonardo da Vinci vocational mobility projects over a three-months period. The study relies on the formally recognized achievements of an international network of training providing institutions and is focused on recognition of competences in the area of business and foreign language learning. The purposes of the formal recognition case study are both formative and summative. This presentation will reflect on implications for the development of the Common European Principles